Chorioamnionitis in intrauterine fetal death: A forensic histopathological case study

Acute chorioamnionitis is a placental inflammatory condition often implicated in adverse pregnancy outcomes, including intrauterine death. The histopathological identification of maternal and fetal inflammatory responses (MIR and FIR) is critical for diagnosis and understanding potential causal mechanisms. Chorioamnionitis frequently warrants medico-legal investigation, particularly for suspected medical malpractice.

Two forensic cases of intrauterine fetal death with histological finding of acute chorioamnionitis are presented. Each case has been investigated with a complete autopsy with histological examination of fetal organs and placenta. The investigations were conducted following the Royal College of Pathologists' Guidelines on autopsy practice for fetal death and the European Guidelines for forensic investigations involving suspected healthcare professional liability.

In Case 1, histopathology revealed acute necrotizing chorioamnionitis associated with chorionic vasculitis, funisitis and fetal organ involvement (stage 3/grade 2 MIR; stage 2/grade 1 FIR), supporting a causal role in fetal death. In Case 2, only focal chorioamnionitis with minimal fetal inflammatory response (stage 2/grade 1 MIR; stage 1/grade 1 FIR) was detected. A definitive and certain causal relationship with the death cannot be established due to the absence of systemic fetal involvement. No substandard medical care was identified in either case.

These cases underscore the importance of integrating clinical and histological data to determine the pathophysiological significance of chorioamnionitis in fetal death. The evaluation of FIR and organ involvement are critical for distinguishing between causal and incidental findings. Thorough histopathological evaluation is essential for accurate cause of death determination and medicolegal assessment.